Mpox: What Have We Learned and How Do We Better Prepare for the Future?
Seth D Judson1, Chloe M Orkin2,3, Kelly Gebo1
1Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA.
The Journal of Infectious Diseases
|January 17, 2025
Summary
The 2022-2023 mpox outbreak revealed global health inequities. Lessons learned from this mpox (monkeypox) epidemic and the spread of clade Ib mpox are crucial for future public health preparedness.
Area of Science:
- * Global Health Security
- * Infectious Disease Epidemiology
- * Public Health Preparedness
Background:
- * The 2022-2023 global mpox (monkeypox) outbreak of clade IIb significantly altered understanding of the disease's epidemiology and prevention strategies.
- * This outbreak exposed critical inequities in accessing essential medical resources, including vaccines, diagnostics, and therapeutics.
- * The recent emergence and spread of clade Ib mpox underscore the need to re-evaluate and apply lessons from the previous outbreak to enhance future responses.
Purpose of the Study:
- * To review and synthesize key learnings from the global mpox (monkeypox) outbreak.
- * To discuss strategies for improving future mpox outbreak preparedness and response.
- * To identify priorities for future mpox research based on recent epidemiological events.
Main Methods:
- * Convened an international symposium at Johns Hopkins University in September 2024.
- * Facilitated discussions among experts on mpox epidemiology, prevention, and response.
- * Synthesized expert perspectives and identified research priorities.
Main Results:
- * Highlighted the persistent challenges in equitable access to mpox countermeasures.
- * Emphasized the need for updated strategies to address evolving mpox clades (e.g., clade Ib).
- * Outlined critical areas for future research to strengthen global mpox surveillance and control.
Conclusions:
- * The mpox (monkeypox) pandemic experience offers vital lessons for public health.
- * Addressing health inequities is paramount for effective mpox prevention and control.
- * Continued research and international collaboration are essential for future mpox preparedness.
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